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Changes health insurance 2026


The Dutch government decides what types of care are reimbursed under the basic health insurance policy. This basic insurance is amended each year, for instance to include new treatments and types of medication. This is the same for all healthcare insurers. Read about all the changes below.

These changes apply to the basic health insurance ZEM Policy

  • More help with smoking cessation
    Starting in 2026, you will be able to participate in a smoking cessation programme three times per calendar year. This is fully reimbursed from the basic insurance. This will allow you to get help more quickly if you are unable to stop. Up to now, a maximum of one programme per calendar year has been reimbursed. Research shows that people are more likely to successfully quit if they receive support more often.
  • No excess in case of consultation and consultation advice
    As from 2026, a consultation and consultation advice will no longer fall under the excess. This also applies to the exploratory interview in the mental health care unit. In the case of a consultation and advice from a consultant, a doctor can request advice from another healthcare provider. This allows quick determination of the patient’s needs. The aim is to provide patients with the right care as quickly as possible and to reduce the pressure on healthcare.
  • Long-term exercise therapy in axial spondyloarthritis reimbursed
    Do you have axial spondyloarthritis (a form of inflammatory rheumatism with pelvic and spinal complaints) and severe limitations in everyday life? You will be reimbursed for long-term exercise therapy starting in 2026. This care can be provided by both a physiotherapist or a remedial therapist. Since it has been proven that the remedial therapy helps with exercise and reduces pain, this care will from now on be reimbursed from the first treatment under the basic insurance.
  • More caregivers may refer to specialist care

    From 2026, the following healthcare providers may also refer you to specialist medical care:

    • a forensic doctor or substance abuse specialist in the even of physical complaints
    • a midwife for prenatal screening

    You do not always have to go to your GP first. This makes access to the right care faster and easier.

    Amendment of general terms and conditions

    Our general terms and conditions have been amended. This applies to both basic insurance and supplementary insurance. The condition already existed, but has been further clarified in the policy conditions of 2026.

    • Care for yourself or by a family member
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    Excess and care allowance

    Your compulsory excess for 2026 will remain unchanged at €385. More information about the excess you will find on Excess.

    In 2026, the care allowance will remain roughly the same. This is a contribution from the government towards the costs of your health insurance. On the website of the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst), you can calculate whether you are entitled to a care allowance and how to apply for it.

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